You Still Can Get A Big Cruise Line Discount

By Glenn Matthews


Back in the day, going on a cruise ship was something only the rich can afford. There were different classes for passengers and restricted areas depending on your class. Cruise ships were few and accommodations adequate but barely comfortable. And worse, you wouldn't be allowed to socialize with other passengers from different classes - only the ones in yours.

The increased demand for cruising led to an increased supply of cruise ships. Cruise ships would also evolve in terms of luxury and space, as one ship would be built after the other. Today's ships are almost as luxurious as your average resort. And best of all, cruising is now affordable even for average folk in this era of expensive fuel costs. But, it's up to you or a trusted travel agent to find the best deal available.

Book online with travel companies, buy directly from the cruise line of choice or enlist the services of a travel agent. Try all and settle on the best deal for you. With any booking option, book early and save ten to forty percent.

Develop instant credibility and save money by making payment in full. Standby booking is good for those who are flexible with their times of departure. Standby passengers are usually notified if they made the list 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure.

You can get an idea of how your cruise is going to cost by looking at the size and location of the cabin. Interior cabins are cheapest with no view; but unless you plan to spend a lot of time in the room this won't matter. If you're going on a cruise where the scenery is great, you may want to fork over some dough by going for cabins with a window and/or a balcony - it will be all worth the extra cost.

Ask your agent or the cruise line if there are any special discounts for booking. Discounts are available for seniors 55 plus and if you're a member of certain organizations like AAA or AARP.

You should be eligible for a discount if you're sailing with a group and specials are often offered such as buy one get one free. A good source for special offers would be newsletters, both online and offline.

You can take advantage of lower rates by traveling off-peak. If you're planning to get away before the Christmas season, that's the perfect time for a Caribbean cruise. Booking an Alaskan cruise immediately before or after the summer months could save you money.

Repositioning cruises are a bargain if you like to spend most of your time at sea. Generally, in the spring and fall, ships are moved from one part of the world to another depending on the sailing season. And in order to move these ships, they need to be sailed, and it would be more economical to sail them to their new destination with paying passengers on the ships.

Cruise lines have their own equivalent to frequent flyer miles. You can take advantage of discounts and special offers if you've sailed several times with a certain cruise line. You usually have an opportunity to book again while on the current cruise at a discount. The people in charge of cruises know that it could be hard to turn down an offer when you're having a great time.

Cruses are all inclusive and designed for everyone regardless of age or mobility. Food, lodging and entertainment are first quality. It also feels nice to be treated like royalty by the cruise staff. If the water's deep enough you can probably find a cruise anywhere in the world to beautiful and exotic ports of call. But regardless of the destination, a cruise an experience not to be forgotten soon.




About the Author: